Used to prevent measles,mumps, and rubella, the MMR vaccine is usually given first between 12 and 15 months, and then again later in childhood. Reactions to the MMR vaccine are common, but generally mild: 20 percent of children will develop a rash or slight fever one to two weeks after receiving the shot.

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MeaslesChildhood infectious disease causing rash and fever. A viral infection that may cause hearing loss. It does not always lead to hearing loss, but it can cause a wide range of sensorineural hearing loss from monaural to binaural and mild to profound in degree. Measles has historically been a common childhood disease with rare complications. Mass vaccination has resulted in a dramatic decline in measles incidence, but outbreaks now occur in older populations and in infants born to women whose immunity from vaccination has deteriorated. Periodic epidemics continue to occur. The vaccine is associated with serious adverse reactions including permanent nervous system damage and thrombocytopenia (a decrease in blood platelets responsible for blood clotting with accompanying spontaneous bleeding) all resulting from autoimmune disease triggered by the vaccine. Long-term effects are unknown.

MumpsMumps is a viral disease characterised by fever, headache, and inflammation of the salivary glands. It may lead to complications such as meningitis.

RubellaA mild, highly contagious viral disease that can cause serious birth defects if a pregnant woman is afflicted. Women who haven't had it should make sure they're immunized before conception.

VaccineA preparation, often of living weakened microorganisms, that is introduced into the body to produce immunity to a specific disease by causing the formation of antibodies.

Childhood1. The time for a boy or girl from birth until he or she is an adult. 2. The more circumscribed period of time from infancy to the onset of puberty.

RashA reddish spot or patch of irritated skin. Rashes can be caused byillnesses, allergies, and heat and are usually temporary.

FeverWhen body temperature rises above its normal level - defined as 98.6 degrees F, though it varies by individual and time of day. A fever is the sign of an immune system at work and usually indicates an infection.

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MeaslesChildhood infectious disease causing rash and fever. A viral infection that may cause hearing loss. It does not always lead to hearing loss, but it can cause a wide range of sensorineural hearing loss from monaural to binaural and mild to profound in degree. Measles has historically been a common childhood disease with rare complications. Mass vaccination has resulted in a dramatic decline in measles incidence, but outbreaks now occur in older populations and in infants born to women whose immunity from vaccination has deteriorated. Periodic epidemics continue to occur. The vaccine is associated with serious adverse reactions including permanent nervous system damage and thrombocytopenia (a decrease in blood platelets responsible for blood clotting with accompanying spontaneous bleeding) all resulting from autoimmune disease triggered by the vaccine. Long-term effects are unknown.

MeasurinMeasurin is a prescription or over-the-counter drug which is (or once was) approved in the United States and possibly in other countries. Active ingredient(s): aspirin.

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Maternal deprivation syndromeThe symptoms, including failure to thrive and slow growth and development,suffered by an infant who is deprived of physical and emotional contact.

Maternal mortalityThe death of woman caused by anything immediately related to pregnancy, including birth, miscarriage, and abortion.

Maternity centerAn alternative to a hospital, a maternity center is a facility designedand equipped for giving birth.

Maternity cycleThe period of time from conception through the first six weeks after birth.

Maternity leavePaid or unpaid time off work to care for a new baby, either after adoption or giving birth. In the U.S., under the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, companies with 50 or more employees are required to offer eligible employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave during any 12-month period after the birth, adoption, or foster care placement of a child.

Measles mumps rubella vaccine

MeconiumA newborn's first bowel movements, which are dark, sticky, and usually greenish-black, and last for the first few days of the infant's life. If meconium is visible in the amniotic fluid prior to delivery, it can be a sign that the fetus is in distress.

Medical testsProcedures used to assess the condition of a patient. They range from noninvasive, such as listening to a heartbeat, to invasive, such as a spinal tap.

MembranesAlso know as the bag of waters, this thin sac contains the amniotic fluid and the fetus. The membranes will either rupture spontaneously during labor or be ruptured to speed up labor.

Mental retardationSlower than normal or limited intellectual and emotional development.

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